Awakened by a Kiss (Fiery Tales, #1)

Nov 17, 2011 Victoria Vane rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotic-romance, novella

**Book contains Erotic content**

This book is comprised of 3 historical erotic romance novellas inspired by 17th century French fairy tales. The author did a fabulous job of bringing the luxurious and licentious reign of the Sun King,to life through her primary characters who are all bastard children of Louis XIV.
I was charmed and titillated by these highly sensual tales.

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Apr 19, 2011 Carol *Young at Heart Oldie* rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 5-star-books

Deliciously hot and spicy is how I would describe Lila DiPasqua's AWAKENED BY A KISS. It is a collection of three steamy love stories each inspired, although rather loosely, by a popular children's fairy tale.

Sleeping Beau

After an audience with his father, the King, Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain is not in the best of moods and anticipates enjoying a few days of drinking and debauchery at the Comtesse de Lamotte's house party. What he doesn't need is his half-sister, Charlotte, harassing him...more

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Jun 18, 2012 Dawn rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: dipasqua-lila

This is a collection of three separate stories. I am writing a review of each for my own benefit since I tend to forget details once I've moved on to the next.

Sleeping Beau - Adrien is the bastard (though recognized) son of the King, Louis XIV. He is a well-known rake going from one conquest to the next without emotional ties of any kind. He finds himself at a house party where he spots a woman he had an encounter with five years ago. She captivated him, but left him with no clue as to her ident...more This is a collection of three separate stories. I am writing a review of each for my own benefit since I tend to forget details once I've moved on to the next.

Sleeping Beau - Adrien is the bastard (though recognized) son of the King, Louis XIV. He is a well-known rake going from one conquest to the next without emotional ties of any kind. He finds himself at a house party where he spots a woman he had an encounter with five years ago. She captivated him, but left him with no clue as to her identity. He has never forgotten her. She is Catherine and five years ago used him to take her virginity in the hopes of spoiling an unwanted engagement. It didn't work. She had a miserable marriage, but is now a widow. Adrien can't resist the temptation to possess her again. Catherine, however, is engaged to his sister's lover although it is not a love match. His sister wants his help to spoil their engagement. He refuses to be a part of her scheme but he can't resist Catherine and the feelings she awakens in him. They have a very touching HEA. This story was short but quite moving and emotional.

Little Red Writing - Another emotion-packed story. My heart just breaks for them sometimes. This time it is Nicolas, one of the King's guard, on a mission for the crown to determine the identity of an author secretly and illegally publishing thinly veiled stories detrimental to men of the aristocracy. Anne, one of three sisters who are suspects, live with their benefactress who turns out to be Nicolas's estranged grandmother. Nicolas takes notice of Anne and decides to seduce her to gain information for his case. Of course, it turns out to be much more than just sex between them. And, of course, they have their HEA and Nicolas is even reunited with his grandmother. Very nice story.

Bewitching in Boots - This tantalizing tale is about Elisabeth, the King's favorite daughter, and Tristan, former captain of the King's private Guard. He was injured saving the life of the King and Elizabeth's sister three months previous and was sent to his chateau to recuperate. He was replaced of course which made him withdrawn and despondent. Elisabeth had always been enamored of him and decided that she would show up at his house on the pretense of needing a fencing instructor. Tristan found her captivating in her men's garb and her unique boots. She had to do some convincing to get him to agree to the lessons, but what she also wanted was to bed him thinking that would get him out of her system. Yeah, right. They both fall in love and have a wonderful HEA.

Lila DiPasqua is a new author to me and I thoroughly enjoyed all 3 stories. Her style is a bit more raw than what I am generally used to reading. But it was still enjoyable. I am going to look for the other 2 books in this series.(less)

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Feb 24, 2011 Rane rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Once upon a time, about a few days ago.. a poor reviewer by the name of Rane…was BORED! The horrors! The shame! For upon her mountain of TBR did she not find a single book that drew her. Book upon book did she toss aside woe is poor Rane! The poor reviewer was at wits end when she spied a book by a new author, with fairy tales retold in an erotic feel, my blushes! With the hope that perhaps a short story may cure her reader’s troubles Rane picked up the book and was quickly capture into each sto...more

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May 23, 2012 vra rated it 3 of 5 stars

To be honest, this is the first book by Lila DiPasqua that I read and I got her name when I was looking for similar authors to Robin Schone. This book pales in comparison to Schone's work, but I do feel it deserves a review on its own, without being pitted against others'.

There are 3 stories in the book. All derived from famous fairy tales: (1) Sleeping Beauty, (2) Little Red Riding Hood and (3) Puss in Boots. For those of you who expect to a strong fairy tale theme, you will be disappointed. Th...more

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Oct 04, 2011 Melanie rated it 3 of 5 stars

I reviewed this book for Romance Reader At Heart website.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

Lila DiPasqua's debut book is an anthology in which she gives us three erotic tales set in the reign of Louis XIV. As I finished reading the book, two words kept popping into my mind: cotton candy.

Big, beautiful, pink and fluffy, but of no substance...and yet so sweet while it melts in your mouth, AWAKENED BY A KISS is an entertaining collection of naughty stories. While each of these short stories was to...more

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Sep 14, 2010 Booklover1335 rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2010

AWAKENED BY A KISS by Lila DiPasqua is a collection of three “cleverly retold” fairy tales containing elements of the classic stories, but with new, creative and steamy interpretations. Each story is approximately one hundred pages long which made them quick, yet seductively satisfying reads.

The first book “Sleeping Beau” was adapted from “Sleeping Beauty” and is a great beginning to this anthology. Adrien d’Aspe, the Marquis of Beaulain, is commonly known to the women of the French court as “le...more

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Aug 12, 2010 Brande Waldron rated it 5 of 5 stars

Awakened By A Kiss by Lila DiPasqua you are served up three delicious and scandalous romances that are loosely based on some of our best loved fairy tales.

First you have Sleeping Beau, Adrien d’Aspe who five years ago had his world rocked to it's core when he slept with the woman who has since haunted his dreams, his every fantasy. But now he has her right where he wants her. They can’t resist each other, but she is set to marry another. A marriage of convenience and safety, to a man that Adrie...more Awakened By A Kiss by Lila DiPasqua you are served up three delicious and scandalous romances that are loosely based on some of our best loved fairy tales.

First you have Sleeping Beau, Adrien d’Aspe who five years ago had his world rocked to it's core when he slept with the woman who has since haunted his dreams, his every fantasy. But now he has her right where he wants her. They can’t resist each other, but she is set to marry another. A marriage of convenience and safety, to a man that Adrien’s sister is deeply in love with, a man that has dropped her as his mistress like hot coals.
Catherine despite her better judgement has never felt the way she has with another man than she did with Adrien. He lights something in her that can't be tames.

Oh the tangled web we weave should be the title of Adrien and Catherine’s love affair. And with the help of his three meddling uncles (think 3 fairy Godmothers) this story was a pure delight with sinfully decadent encounters that will leave you fanning yourself and wanting more.

In Little Red Writing Anne de Vignon is a woman in disguise. In a time when woman were not accepted as writers, much less a writer of scandalous romantic poetry. This isn’t going to fly with the King and now she a wanted woman, thing is they THINK it is a woman since she is writing under the pen name of Gilbert Leduc. One thing about Anne is I found her utterly adorable, especially with Nicholas de Savignac a.k.a. The Wolf, who just happens to be hot on her tail and needs to arrest her in the name of the King for her lewd literature!

But as cupid would have it love strikes the two and Nicholas is challenged, love for Anne or his duty to the King.

Bewitching In Boots is about Elisabeth de Roussel is a widowed and taking control of her love life. If she has her way she will have the handsome Tristan de Tiersonnier who just happens to be but wounded inside and out. But Elisabeth is feisty and I have to say one of my favorite characters, she must act quickly before her father, the King decides to choose another man for her. No other will do but the sexy Tristan. Thing is Tristen doesn’t want the strong willed and determined Elisabeth in his life. He feels less than a man and his ego has taken a huge hit, thinking she is only hear to tease him. She knows what she wants and she isn't backing down. I thought their love scenes were the hottest of the three, although they all were pretty incredible!

Problem, he can’t resist the seductive beauty and Elisabeth knows that this is his one chance to capture Tristan’s heart

Three fantastic stories that will take you away into a world of fairy tale romance, capturing your heart as well as your emotions. Lila as created each character in such a manor that they weave a tantalizing web of drama, romance and good old fashioned naughty love scenes that will light the pages on fire. Simply delicious.
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Aug 05, 2010 Patti Loves FAB Romance rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, erotic

The premise of this book sounded very interesting - erotic fairy tales? They were not exactly what I'd expected but I did find the book enjoyable.

In Sleeping Beau, Adrien is the newly legitimate son of the king. He's at a house party where all the ton is there, when he spies a stunning woman - a woman he'd had an unbelieveable encounter with five years previously. She'd come to his bed, had amazingly erotic sex, and then left him without a backward glance. He'd not forgotten her since. Catherine...more The premise of this book sounded very interesting - erotic fairy tales? They were not exactly what I'd expected but I did find the book enjoyable.

In Sleeping Beau, Adrien is the newly legitimate son of the king. He's at a house party where all the ton is there, when he spies a stunning woman - a woman he'd had an unbelieveable encounter with five years previously. She'd come to his bed, had amazingly erotic sex, and then left him without a backward glance. He'd not forgotten her since. Catherine has her reasons for the events of that evening, and when she arrives at her friend's home and sees Lord Adrien she is upset. He eventually corners her and she slowly reveals her reasons for their encounter. He convinces her to agree to a daliance while they are staying on the estate, until her betrothed comes to claim her; he doesn't mention his sister is her betrothed's mistress...

This story was very erotic. Catherine had a history that made me want an HEA for her. Adrien was a good as hero, the reformed rake, smitten by the "mystery woman" who tamed his heart. The events at the end of the story came as a surprise, and tied neatly in with the original fairy tale.

~~~~~~~

In Little Red Writing, Nicholas nickname The Wolf) is a Musketeer, searching his estranged grandmother's home for evidence of an author penning illegal books. He's narrowed it down to the three sisters living in his grandmother's home, but doesn't know which one it is. Anne and her sisters write the stories, aiding women who have no one else to turn to - airing their grievances while at the same time exposing the male aristocracy for the insults committed against those who are helpless in society (ie, women). As cold-hearted Nicholas begins his investigation, he is taken by the beauty of Anne, and after bedding her, begins to fall in love.

Anne's past had shaped her into a bitter woman, focusing only on the injustices in life, until Nicholas showed her passion. By the time Nicholas acknowledged his feelings for Anne, it was too late - the King demanded an audience. At first I wasn't too fond of Nicholas, but by the end of the story he surprised me and won me over! (And it wasn't just the desk sex!!)

~~~~~~~

Bewitching in Boots has two of my favorite storylines: Enemies to Lovers, and Women in Historical Novels Who Wear Men's Clothing (I don't know why I like that but I do!). I think this was my favorite of the three stories - Elizabeth, favored daughter of the King, arrives at the home of Tristan, the King's former chief guard, planning to seduce him into her bed and into marriage, which will be difficult to do as he hates her. Elizabeth knows the king is planning to marry her off again and this time she wants to choose her husband. This was a nice story and I liked both the hero and heroine. There was some light bondage (yay!) and the ending made me happy.

I think sometimes with short stories, the authors have to jump right into the "good stuff" so they can occasionally feel a bit abrubt. These stories were an entertaining take on traditional fairy tales, every now and then I'd catch something and think "yes, from the original fairy tale", which made it fun.

My rating: 3 1/2 stars(less)

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Jul 24, 2010 Bookaholics rated it 4 of 5 stars

Awakened by a Kiss (Fiery Tales, Book 1) by Lila DiPasqua
Erotic Historical-Aug. 3, 2010
4 stars

Awakened by A Kiss is an anthology full of highly erotic and decadent stories based very loosely on 3 fairy tales. (If I hadn’t been told they have been based on fairy tales I would not have realized it!) In these 3 stories, 3 couples find passion and love in the luxurious background of rich Versailles during the reign of the Sun King XIV.

Sleeping Beau
In the first story the handsome rake Adrien d’Aspe...more Awakened by a Kiss (Fiery Tales, Book 1) by Lila DiPasqua
Erotic Historical-Aug. 3, 2010
4 stars

Awakened by A Kiss is an anthology full of highly erotic and decadent stories based very loosely on 3 fairy tales. (If I hadn’t been told they have been based on fairy tales I would not have realized it!) In these 3 stories, 3 couples find passion and love in the luxurious background of rich Versailles during the reign of the Sun King XIV.

Sleeping Beau
In the first story the handsome rake Adrien d’Aspe is awakened by the kiss of a mysterious woman. They shared a night of unforgettable passion. Years later he believes he has found her but she denies knowing him. He knows she was his lover and is determined to get to acknowledge him even if he has to seduce her…

Little Red Writing
In the 2nd story, Nicolas de Savignac is on an assignment by his king to find a suspicious writer. But is surprised when his lead suspects are located at his grandmother house where he finds 3 lovely ladies. All of them sisters. One attracts his attention and his desire. He knows he must find the culprit but what will his new love do when she finds out he suspects them and must turn one of them in? How can he protect his love and her sisters and still remain loyal to his king?

Bewitching in Boots
In the last story the illegitimate and highly sought after daughter of the King wants one thing. Tristan de Tiersonnier. The problem is that he has never seemed to like her. Under the pretext of hiring him to teach her fencing skills she wears her lucky boots and sets after seducing him into her arms.

I was surprised and pleased at how much I enjoyed and was titillated by these delicious stories of sensuality and romance. This book is definitely erotic and packs a ton of scorching reads. However, the author does not stint on the story. I found all the characters likeable and did feel they actually cared for each other unlike many just erotic books which are filled with purely sex scenes. The blazing scenes were very tasteful and only included the main 2 characters.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves HOT romance filled with sumptuous fantasy and is looking for an easy and light read.

Reviewed by Steph from Bookaholics Romance Book Club
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Feb 03, 2011 Lisarenee rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

This book is anthology of 3 stories written by the same author. If she didn't tell you what the connections was to Fairy Tales you probably would have no clue they were variations of the well known tales. All are historical romances that take place in France.

Sleeping Beau
Sort of a twist on Sleeping Beauty. Catherine did something five years ago that she's not proud of, but she was desperate. She seduced a man from Vienna by lacing his drink with an aphrodisiac. She gave up her virginity that nig...more

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Jul 18, 2010 Katie(babs) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Debut author, Lila DiPasqua has arrived on the scene with an anthology showcasing three erotic retellings of those fairy tales we loved to read as children. Each story is set during the reign of Louis XIV during the late 17th century. Seductive, tantalizing and hot are the three words that come to mind as I read these shorts. Lila DiPasqua writes great steamy sex without the overuse of purple prose.

Sleeping Beau is about the smutty rake, Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis of Beaulain. Adrien is one of King...more Debut author, Lila DiPasqua has arrived on the scene with an anthology showcasing three erotic retellings of those fairy tales we loved to read as children. Each story is set during the reign of Louis XIV during the late 17th century. Seductive, tantalizing and hot are the three words that come to mind as I read these shorts. Lila DiPasqua writes great steamy sex without the overuse of purple prose.

Sleeping Beau is about the smutty rake, Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis of Beaulain. Adrien is one of King Louis' illegitimate children and enjoys embarrassing his father. Adrien's sister Charlotte wants Philbert de Baillet badly. Now that Philbert is to be married to the widowed Catherine de Villecourt, he has pushed aside Charlotte. She wants Adrien to seduce Catherine and ruin her in the eyes of her fiancé. Adrian wants to do nothing of the sort that is until he sees Catherine. He believes that Catherine was the woman who drugged him with an aphrodisiac five years ago and gave him the best sex of his life.

Adrien confronts Catherine, who acts as if she has no idea that he's talking about. Adrian has never forgiven the redheaded temptress and will ravish her if he has to so she will admit that she is the mysterious woman that got away. Catherine had her own reasons for tricking Adrian the way she did and still wants him desperately. She allows him to seduce her and give her the all consuming lovemaking that was lacking in her marriage. They will enjoy the next few days together in the carnal sense until her fiancé comes for her.

Sleeping Beau is a perfect tale about a man who finally finds that one woman who completes him and will make him loyal and deserving. Adrien is very likable even with him being proud of his man ho ways. Lila gives us some insight on his nature and you really believe that Catherine can save him.

Little Red Writing is about Anne de Vignon, who publishes romantic poetry under her real name while using the alias of Gilbert Leduc to ridicule and mock men who she believes have no morals. King Louis orders one of his Musketeers, Nicholas de Savignac to find Leduc's true identity. When he meets Anne and her two sisters, he knows one of them could possibly be Leduc. Known as le Loup- the Wolf, Nicholas will take down Leduc even if it means seducing Anne and learning all her secrets.

Anne has given up on love, but when she meets Nicolas her heart yearns for passion that her past lovers couldn't give her. She welcomes Nicholas into her bedroom, where she is open to the delights of his lovemaking, totally unaware of what he really has planned for her.

Little Red Writing is a bit more understated but still sexy. This story has some nice tension to it, including a nice connection between Anne and Nicolas. There is one great scene in the library that shows how much of a giver Nicolas is. The final outcome brings forth a few surprises I wasn't expected.

Bewitching in Boots is about the widow Elisabeth de Roussel and King Louis' favorite illegitimate daughter. Elisabeth is afraid her father will make her marry another man she finds lacking. Only one man will do and one she is near obsessed with- Tristan de Tiersonnier, the ex-commander of the King's private guard. She goes to his chateau to seduce him and won't be denied.

Tristan feels like less than a man because of an accident that has caused him to go lame in one leg. When Elisabeth arrives and won't leave, he is frustrated in more ways than one. He thinks she is conniving and a flirt who uses men to her advantage. If Elisabeth stays, she will play by his rules and than means he will be in charge of her body and in the bedroom.

Bewitching in Boots is a delicious tale that has a very strong willed heroine who longs to be taken control by a man who makes her body weep. The sex between Tristan and Elisabeth is dirty, hot and too good for words. Lila makes a great case why Tristan and Elisabeth are perfect for one another.

Awakened by a Kiss has a great deal of sopping wet, soaking drawers and passionate kissing on beds, against walls and on desks. Not only does Lila write great sex scenes, but she gives her character depth and has created a great world during a time period I wasn't too knowledgeable about.

If you are looking for a few short and steamy erotic romances to tickle your fancy, do give Awakened by a Kiss a try. I look forward to more Lila DiPasqua releases and I can see her making a name for herself in the erotic romance world. (less)

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Aug 25, 2010 Lexie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: book-type-tradepaperback, books-owned, genre-romance-historical

This trio of fiery fairy tale re-tellings are by DiPasqua alone, though her influence is Perrault's fairy tales and the Sun King (Louis XIV) of France's court. His very decadent, very conniving and utterly ruthless court. There are Musketeers! That alone wins it a thumbs up from me.

Mild warnings for language--actually its not a mild warning at all. Not a language person at all, but I had no idea that half of the words (still used in today's modern times) were also used way back when (the late-is...more This trio of fiery fairy tale re-tellings are by DiPasqua alone, though her influence is Perrault's fairy tales and the Sun King (Louis XIV) of France's court. His very decadent, very conniving and utterly ruthless court. There are Musketeers! That alone wins it a thumbs up from me.

Mild warnings for language--actually its not a mild warning at all. Not a language person at all, but I had no idea that half of the words (still used in today's modern times) were also used way back when (the late-ish 17th century) in France.

"Sleeping Beau"
Poor poor Adrien--he gets completely ravished by a beauty and when he wakes up she's disappeared. But oh! He finds her again! And she is carrying a lot of baggage. Of the three I think this one was the best, in both terms of characterization and development. Communication is the paramount lesson (of all three quite frankly), but I think Adrien and Catherine learned this best, with both coming clean very early on in the story. I wasn't really pleased with Catherine's other suitor, he proved himself to be the lowest sort of man and Adrien's half-sister Charlotte had some serious mental problems.

"Little Red Writing"
Mon dieu but who knew Musketeers were so...dashing? And secretive. And oh. He's not really approaching this in the most gentlemanly manner is he? That said...I think we can forgive him eh? Nicolas is on a mission from his King and he does has the best of intentions at heart. Mostly. Well, he sort of started out righteously upset about the whole Leduc thing and sort of mellowed by the end. I'm not entirely convinced he understood Anne's reasons for being Leduc. And if I had to be completely truthful Anne seemed made of sterner stuff then he was. The chemistry between them was significant and it made me enjoy the story more--plus made me forget about nagging little things like, what happens next.

"Bewitching in Boots"
This was definitely the story that amused me the most. Elisabeth was always about two words away from smacking Tristan upside his head--for some reason or another--and Tristan was ready to strangle her. Quite often. Tristan made a very brief appearance at the end of "Little Red Writing" as Nicolas' boss, but this is set some months later, after Tristan is injured. And forced to retire to the country to brood and dither and be Mr. Crankypants where the King didn't have to listen to him. Elisabeth, in lust for Tristan for years finally managed to use her considerable influence with her father, the King, to something beneficial to her. Unfortunately for her Tristan is rather sick of the Sun King's Court politics. Even when they were getting hot and heavy it was an amusing time because despite Tristan's...bedroom tricks, Elisabeth is more than a match for him. The old blight spot was we're told how influential Elisabeth is with his Majesty--his favorite daughter--but that didn't always seem the case.

Overall this collection was a fun diverting read. And it had musketeers, I'm sorry didn't I make that clear? It was interesting seeing a book full of women who were, by in large, sexually liberated in a historical setting. I'm much more used to reading about historical books where women were more afraid to show their sexual bent. I liked how DiPasqua used the fairy tales as unique plot devices, but didn't batter the theme to death. Elisabeth had to drool-worthy boots and well I think you see where that was going don't you?

Her second collection, The Princess in his Bed, looks to be equally charming and is due out in November, featuring erotically charged romance novellas with "The Emperor's New Clothes," "The Ugly Duckling," and "The Princess and the Pea." as the themes. (less)

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Jul 26, 2010 VampFanGirl rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, for-review, historical-romance, favorite-books-of-2010, favorites

My Review:

Novella #1: SLEEPING BEAU

For five long tormented years, Adrien Christophe d'Aspe de Bourbon, Marquis de Beaulain has been assailed by haunting erotic dreams of the woman who once drugged him then went on to grant him the most memorable sexual escapade of his life. Leaving with the dawn, he never learned her identity and though he searched, she was never found. Now in the present, Adrien's emotional and heartbroken younger half-sister pleads with him to seduce the woman that has stolen...more

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Aug 03, 2010 Sophia (FV) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Awakened by a Kiss is Lila DiPasqua’s debut and is the retelling of three classic fairytales, each retold with a unique erotic spin.

Sleeping Beau

Five years ago, Adrien d’Aspe, notorious rake and bastard son to the King, finds himself awakened by a kiss. His mysterious masked lady showed him a night pure carnal pleasure and he has never forgotten her. Thinking he would never see his mystery seductress again, he is shocked to find that she is visiting the same chateau as he is, and she is to be m...more

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Apr 04, 2011 Carien rated it 4 of 5 stars

In one word: Wow!
I knew these stories were loosely based on fairytales and reading the series title Fiery Tales I expected a lot of romance. I didn't expect them to be as hot, steamy and delightfully smutty as they turned out to be. As for the fairytale element: the stories contain some elements of the original fairytale, but they're more historical romances than fairytales. I can't say I minded though. These stories are hot, romantic and have droolworthy Alpha males and strong heroines who know...more

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Mar 31, 2011 Bronwyn Rykiert rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: library-book, erotic-fiction, historical-romance

This book was a disappointment, not quite as good as I was expecting from the recommendations I read - but that happens periodically.

It was still a okay read.

There are 3 stories and the main characters are linked through the King of France - 2 are the illegitimate children of the King and the 3rd works as a Muskateer in his court. He has ligetmized his children by accepting them as his and giving them both titles and lands of thier own.

Sleeping Beau - Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulan was awaken...more

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Nov 19, 2010 Leontine rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotic-romance, historical-romance

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, the notorious rake, Adrien d’Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss—and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress—and this time, he has no intention of letting her go…

With SLEEPING BEAU I got my first taste of Lila DiPasqua and I was instantly enamored. I must admit I’m not an avid reader of soiree settings and nobility but DiPasqua blends a decadent time period of the Fr...more

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Nov 25, 2010 Wenj rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2010

Review provided by Black Lagoon Reviews:

This is something of a first for me as I normally don't read historical romance, little lone a historical romance that has absolutely no supernatural or paranormal attributes. In truth, I always assumed the worst about anything with the title 'romance' thinking that it had little-to-no depth and was simply sappy sentimentality focused on unbelievable and overly steamy sex. I definitely had to re-evaluate that stance once I read this novel! I simply loved i...more Review provided by Black Lagoon Reviews:

This is something of a first for me as I normally don't read historical romance, little lone a historical romance that has absolutely no supernatural or paranormal attributes. In truth, I always assumed the worst about anything with the title 'romance' thinking that it had little-to-no depth and was simply sappy sentimentality focused on unbelievable and overly steamy sex. I definitely had to re-evaluate that stance once I read this novel! I simply loved it and diPasqua surpassed my wildest notions with this masterful collection of re-tellings. She managed to created depth within the characters, interesting stories, and wonderful setting, but I was correct on one aspect! The sex was definitely extremely steamy and only went to show that the series title of Fiery Tales was aptly chosen.

'Sleeping Beau', the first tale in the collection, was an enchanting re-telling of the classic 'Sleeping Beauty', The story of the philandering bastard son of the King finding that one woman who steals his heart is touching. It was wonderful watching the evolution of his character from essentially a man-whore to a caring and loving man. The time period the story takes place in is well described as well, and it gives a nice sense of atmosphere. Also, the emotions evoked from the story are wonderfully realized. It draws the reader into the tryst of Catherine and Adrien and as they become closer and ignore their better judgement to stay detached, we fall in love right along with them. While sex and romance novels of this sort go hand in hand, I must say that I didn't feel overwhelmed by the scenes. In fact, I think that they served perfectly to help build the budding relationship between the two and to quickly show the building chemistry in such a short span of time.

'Little Red Writing' was definitely not the story that I thought it would be. While I didn't exactly expect a cottage in the forest and a girl running through the woods with a picnic basket, I certainly didn't expect the intrigue of a poison pen tale. However, I must say that I really enjoyed this one quite a lot more then the first. The character building was brilliant and I found all of them to be enjoyable. The way diPasqua captured the era was likewise marvelous. The lack of rights towards women, the lack of freedom of speech and the general harshness of the rule really came through. The emotions were wonderfully captured. All the desire and longing between the two interspersed with the guilt and dread that built throughout the story as to the identity of Deluc was nicely dramatic and suspenseful, adding a quick pace.

'Bewitching in Boots' was by far my favorite however. The strong alpha male Tristan is aggressive and oh so tempting while Elisabeth is feisty and strong. The two coming together set off sparks and I couldn't help but become engrossed. The setting is beautifully written as is the back story of the characters. The storyline itself was at heart sweet and kept the racy theme of the novel and had me rushing to finish. This story was by far the strongest of the three, or at least for me, and I think diPasqua chose a wonderful way to close out the novel leaving the reader more then satisfied by the tales.

Overall, diPasqua has a wonderful writing style that really drew me into the book. I found it to be highly enjoyable and I definitely won't be writing off this genre in the future!

I will definitely be keeping an eye out for her next installment in the Fiery Tales series, The Princess in His Bed.(less)

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Jul 05, 2012 Lazy Jeff rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2012-read, historical

Well, I really don't know what to think of it. So. Porn tales. Alright-alright, not porn, sex tales. Hmm. It was... hmm... strange )) They had sex and they were tales. Definitely. I mean, to DiPasqua's credit, sex was really hot. And the tale's plot occurred. But... Maybe I've just got out of the habit of reading short stories?..

You know what's funny? Every romance book is based on some fairy tale (or Shakespeare's tragedy )). On "Cinderella" mostly. She was poor, he was rich - blah-blah-blah -...more

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Mar 10, 2011 Nely rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: borrowed

Awakened by a Kiss is the first book in Lila DiPasqua's Fiery Tales Series. In it you'll find three well-known fairytales with an erotic twist.

Sleeping Beau: Adrien d’Aspe, bastard son of Louis XIV, cannot forgot the one night affair he had years ago with Catherine de Villecourt. He remembers it almost like a dream, it was so long ago. But luck is on his side, since the lovely Catherine will be a guest at the same chateau and he will finally find the opportunity to confront her.

Catherine can't...more Awakened by a Kiss is the first book in Lila DiPasqua's Fiery Tales Series. In it you'll find three well-known fairytales with an erotic twist.

Sleeping Beau: Adrien d’Aspe, bastard son of Louis XIV, cannot forgot the one night affair he had years ago with Catherine de Villecourt. He remembers it almost like a dream, it was so long ago. But luck is on his side, since the lovely Catherine will be a guest at the same chateau and he will finally find the opportunity to confront her.

Catherine can't believe that Adrien is the King's son. And even worse, she knows he will want revenge after her maid drugged him in order for Catherine to have her way with him those five years ago. She needed a quick tumble in order to rid herself of her virginity - instead she found a handsome stranger who has starred in all her dreams since.

Little Red Writing: Nicholas de Savignac is one of infamous Musketeers but is more commonly known as "le loup" or "the wolf" since he will stop at nothing to catch the bad guy. His current mission is to find the author of illegal publishing's that depict some of France's male aristocracy in an unfavorable light. His investigation has led him to the Comtesse de Cottineau's doorstep. There he meets Anne and her two sisters and he is quite certain one of the women residing in this household is the authoress he is searching for.

While Nicholas sneaks around searching for clues his feelings for Anne evolve from attraction to what may possibly be love. But could he forgive himself for sleeping with the enemy or will he turn the girls in?

Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel wants Tristan de Tiersonnier. And as the king's favorite daughter she is used to getting exactly what she wants. After Tristan suffers injury while on duty protecting the king he is callously dismissed as the Captain of the Guard and sent to heal in solitude at his chateau. Elisabeth knows her father is getting ready to marry her off so she takes matters into her own hands - she marches right on over to Tristan's. The last person Tristan wants to see is Elisabeth and her royal entourage. And although he threatens her and does one thing after another to scare her off, the lady stands her grown. When he finally threatens her with silk scarves and total domination and the lady still does not back down, Tristan knows he's met his match.

These were such deliciously fun and naughty stories. The fact that they were historical and set in France made them even more sensual. I loved how Ms. DiPasqua interwove little French sayings into each story... whether it be caleçons, justacorps, or Pour l'amour de Dieu! I found the time frame to be unique since you really don't find a lot of French historicals set in a time where it was okay for women to have sexual relationships with men without being considered loose as long as it was done quietly. I really enjoyed Ms. DiPasqua's writing style, her rich historic backgrounds and the fun and quirky characters that star in these stories.

All in all, Awakened by a Kiss is full of desire, true love, and sensual encounters that will have you blushing if not contemplating a cold shower. I found it charming and tasteful. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more by this author.(less)

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Jul 22, 2010 Caroline The HEA Lover rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, 2010, romance, historical, for-book-lovers-inc, signed

(This was originally posted on Book Lovers,Inc)>
Sleeping Beau:
Adrien is a bastard of the king, he’s handsome but he’s also a complete rake. I have mixed feelings about him, I wanted to love him but there was something that annoyed me a little. This is the story I liked the least (but it’s still a good story!), mostly because I didn’t much like how Adrien always tried to push Catherine into admitting the past. Well, she wanted it too but I felt like he was forcing her to say she wants him. Th...more (This was originally posted on Book Lovers,Inc)>
Sleeping Beau:
Adrien is a bastard of the king, he’s handsome but he’s also a complete rake. I have mixed feelings about him, I wanted to love him but there was something that annoyed me a little. This is the story I liked the least (but it’s still a good story!), mostly because I didn’t much like how Adrien always tried to push Catherine into admitting the past. Well, she wanted it too but I felt like he was forcing her to say she wants him. The story in itself was original and the smex was hot so it’s all forgiven lol. There’s a bit of drama with his sister that made it intriguing but also a bit rushed (after all it’s a short story so it was bound to happen =P) . I liked Adrien’s uncles and I wish we’d see more of them. They looked like funny and interesting characters. A good hot short story that revisits the tale of the Sleeping Beauty.

Little Red Writing:
Now, this story I really liked! We are introduced to Nicolas de Savignac. He is a Musketeer on a mission to find the writer who publish scandalous stories about the men of the aristocracy. Nicolas is certain it’s one of the 3 sisters who live with his estranged grand-mother. I really like Nicolas, he is ready to do anything to find and arrest the culprit…and if it takes sleeping with one of the sisters so be it! lol I liked the story AND the characters. Anne is a writer, she wrote love poetry but she was abused by a man she thought loved her and stopped believing in love altogether. The 3 sisters are bitter towards men, and they make the perfect suspects for Nicolas. The naughty scenes were very hot!! I was curious to know how the story would end and I didn’t see the end coming. Very hot tale with lovable characters.

Bewitching in Boots:
This story was PERFECT. I loved it to pieces. There, I said it. *happy sigh* If the previous stories were hot this one is scorching hot. The story, the characters, the smex...everything was perfect. I loved the hero Tristan, he's a leader and he wants to lead in bed too. The heroine knows what she wants too, she wants Tristan and she'll do anything to have him. I liked that she was so confident and that she dared take what she wanted. Let's talk smut now, hot Bondage and dominant Tristan made it SO good. *sits on ice* The story is a mix of 'awwww so cute' and 'OMG so hot' (<===yes i'm a 14years old LOL). I loved all the characters, Tristan's brother was a funny one I would love to see him again. 2 thumbs up!!

Awakened by a kiss:
All in all this was a very refreshing book! I really enjoyed the fact that the stories took place in France, it was a change from the usual Victorian England settings. I’ve always been interesting in the reign of the Roi Soleil. I liked reading about the Musketeers and the king’s bastards. Those stories are very hot, and I really liked that the heroines enjoyed the pleasures of the flesh and weren’t complete naives. They are not passive and act on their desires. The more I read the more I loved it. While I wasn't blow away from the start I was by the end of the book!

We all have our pet peeves and some of mine are the phrase ‘milking his c**k’ and the use of the words juices/juice and cream/creamy. I can’t help it, Milk, Juice and cream make me think of breakfast (not very sexy!). lol But that’s just crazy me =P Otherwise the sex scenes are pretty hot (the last short is really really hot!!). I felt like a naughty girl reading tales from childhood with a sexy twist! I really like the concept and I’m looking forward the next 3 short stories in The Princess in his Bed. I’m very happy to know that Lila will be writing a whole novel based on a fairy tale too. *squee* I can't wait!

I give Awakened by a Kiss 4 Bookies.(less)

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Aug 14, 2010 Kate rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Adults

Whoa Nelly! These “Fiery Tales” are HOT, HOT, HOT! (Blushing & contemplating a really cold shower whilst remembering those deliciously steamy scenes!)

Lila DiPasqua puts a whole new and erotically charged twist to some of the classic fairy tales we all know and love! However, readers will NOT find themselves remembering their childhood story times, oh no! Each and every one of you will find yourselves shamelessly casting a sensual glance, or two, in the direction of your significant other!

In...more

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Jul 19, 2010 Mandi Schreiner rated it 3 of 5 stars

Reviewed by Mandi

Awakened by a Kiss is the debut book by author Lila DiPasqua. It features three short stories, each an erotic twist on a fairy tale.

Sleeping Beau

Adrien d’Aspe, bastard son of Louis XIV has had his way with many, many women, but the one that stands out the most is a one night affair he had five years ago. Catherine de Villecourt enchanted him one evening and he has never forgot her. He has also never forgot the realization that after she fled the next morning, he had taken her vi...more

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Aug 05, 2010 Isalys rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review, historical-romance, arc, owned

AWAKENED BY A KISS is a collection of three very decadent and incredibly steamy stories based loosely on three very popular fairy tales. In these tales, three couples find love and passion in the luxurious time of Versailles during the reign of the King Louis XIV.

SLEEPING BEAU (STORY #1)
Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis of Beaulain, is one of the bastard sons of King Louis XIV. Five years ago, he was seduced by a mystery woman whose memory of has since haunted him. While attending a garden party, his siste...more

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Dec 30, 2010 Heather rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historicalromance

I wasn’t sure what to expect with these stories based on Perrault’s fairy tales, and categorized as erotic romance. I’m not sure this will be an author I revisit, but I will say what I appreciated. (1) The time period. There aren’t many romances based during this time in France, and it gave the society a different vibe. (2) The women weren’t naïve, but neither were they whores. They respected their places in society, but they did who they wanted, quietly. Worth reading if you like stories based...more

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Feb 01, 2011 Rachel rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: people who advocate dirty books

Recommended to Rachel by: goodreads

Shelves: romance

Woah, Nelly! Momma mia! Ay, yi, yi! Pour l'amour de Dieu! Hold on to your hats, your bedposts, and your caleçons! Awakened by a Kiss is the equivalent of a regular historical romance novel multiplied by three and then taken to the power of three! Yes, it's so smutty you'll feel like you need to complete an algebra activity sheet just to redeem yourself. Seriously.

If you desperately crave more details (and I know you do), we'll have to agree to meet at 2AM in a dark and smokey Parisian hole-in-th...more

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Apr 23, 2012 Lee Thao rated it 5 of 5 stars

"Awakened by a Kiss with Passion!"

I have to say, this book was better than I have anticipated! I had thought that the three stories were too short in pages and possibly cannot bring the best out of the stories. Wrong! It was deliciously good! And all stories had wonderful exchanges between the hero and heroine as well as supporting characters!! Definitely one of my favorite books!

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Sep 01, 2010 Vicci rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: night-owl-reviews, aug-2010-paranormal-challange, lila-dipasqua

Complete Review Available At:

http://www.nightowlromance.com/nor/Re...

Reviewed by: Delenn

"Awakened by a Kiss" by Lila DiPasqua, is an erotically charged trilogy based on three fabled fairy tales; Sleeping Beau for Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Writing for Little Red Riding-hood and Bewitching in Boots for Puss-n-Boots.

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Nov 17, 2011 Emery Lee rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotic-romance, novella

**Book contains Erotic content**

This book is comprised of 3 historical erotic romance novellas inspired by 17th century French fairy tales. The author did a fabulous job of bringing the luxurious and licentious reign of the Sun King,to life through her primary characters who are all bastard children of Louis XIV.
I was charmed and titillated by these highly sensual tales.

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